I can't say any of this with the authority of knowledge gained from experience, nor am I able to spend as much time as you in testing of components and theories, but among many things said by long-time BPCR shooters you can find these:Originally Posted by 44man
-moisture is released when black powder burns
-some powders burn 'wetter' than others
-moisture from the burn and fats from the lube combine with elements in the fouling to create the 'soap'
-lube needs to augment the moisture, prevent it's premature loss, and substitute for it if it evaporates...to keep the soap soft.
And, Oh, Yeah!...it needs to lubricate to prevent leading.
That sounds impossible to me, but like I said.....
CM